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Scrap Sources of 1095 steel

Joined
Apr 16, 2000
Messages
4
As a backyard knifemaker I am on the lookout for scrap sources of carbon steel.

Are older bandsaw blades good steel? I'm talking about the big blades that are several inches wide.

Thanks
 
I've got no practical experience (yet!) on this one, but have heard that lawnmower blades and some leaf springs are 1095.

Perhaps someone else can add detail.

I think a lot of makers would agree that 'good knives need to start with good steel,' so make sure you know your scrap is good & free of cracks, etc.

Good luck!

Mike
 
According to Jim Hrisoulas in his "The Master Bladesmith" book, under recycled materials:

Leaf springs - 5160
Plowshares - 1060 or 1065
Improved Plowshare - 1084 or 1095
Clock spring steel - 1095
Files - W-2
Saw blades - L-6
Air hammer bits - S-5
Truck coil springs - 5160

Hope this helps!


------------------
Glen AKA Centaur
"If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants."
- Isaac Newton
 
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